When you think of corporate culture, what comes to mind? The relaxed atmosphere of beanbags and flexible hours or the world of suits and sharp elbows in high-rise boardrooms?
Corporate culture is more than just a buzzword – it is the driving force that influences how a company functions. It defines how teams act, how people collaborate and how they feel about their work.
Whether you run a startup or an established company, your culture will determine everything from productivity to employee happiness.
Let's explore the types of corporate culture with real-life examples that will help you lead with purpose and make your workplace something people want to be a part of.
Common Types of Workplace mexico number data Culture Harvard Business Review defines organizational culture as a system of shared assumptions, values, and beliefs that influence behavior and define what goals are worth pursuing. Simply put, it’s how leadership shapes the work environment and upholds work ethics.
A strong culture increases employee satisfaction, productivity and company performance. There is no one-size-fits-all culture – there are eight different types of company culture, each with its own impact on the workplace.
1. Adhocratic culture
Adhocratic culture revolves around innovation and risk-taking. Leaders encourage employees to think boldly, experiment, and push boundaries without fear of failure. It can also be referred to as a “maker culture,” focused on building something meaningful and impactful.
In these environments, employees are free to explore new ideas, and management does not simply support them but actively encourages them.
Best suited for : Companies operating in rapidly evolving and highly competitive markets, such as technology startups
2. Clan culture
Clan culture is centered around building strong relationships and teamwork. The team is like a close-knit group with shared values and goals and a strong emphasis on collaboration and equality.
This culture is common in family businesses, where hierarchy takes a backseat and everyone is treated as part of a supportive family. There is no division of roles, just a shared mission to impress customers and grow the company.
A customer-centric culture is essential for retail and e-commerce brands, where customer experience is a top priority. Managers empower employees to make decisions that make customers happy.
The result? Employees are continually looking for ways to improve the customer experience, leading to increased loyalty, higher engagement, and a long-term right-way for the company.
Characteristics of customer-centric culture:
Hierarchy culture is based on structure. In this type of organization, each employee has a clear role, established responsibilities, and a specific place in the chain of command.
This culture is common in government agencies, large corporations, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations. Employees know exactly what is expected of them and to whom they are accountable. Although a hierarchical culture may seem rigid, it is excellent for managing risk, achieving consistent results, and increasing operational efficiency.